Neutralizing Alkene Peroxide Accumulation and Trace Transition Metals to Prevent Grubbs II Catalyst Deactivation in Macrocyclic RCM
Macrocyclic ring-closing metathesis (RCM) relies heavily on the sustained activity of ruthenium-based catalysts, particularly Grubbs II generations. The active carbene center is highly susceptible to irreversible deactivation when exposed to oxidants or Lewis basic contaminants. In the context of using an alkenyl bromide as a key organic synthon, peroxide accumulation during storage is a primary failure mode. Trace transition metals such as iron, copper, and nickel act as pro-oxidants, accelerating auto-oxidation at the allylic position. From a process engineering standpoint, we
